Hāmākua Families Win Big at Keiki Fishing Tournament

Hawai‘i Police Department’s Hāmākua Community Policing Section congratulated all the winners and thanked all the participants who partook in the second-annual Hawai‘i Isle Police Activities League/DARE Hawaii Back to School Fishing Tournament on Sunday, Aug. 7 at the Laupāhoehoe Point Beach Park.

About 60 keiki, ages 5-17, and their parents/guardians from across the Hāmākua district participated in the fun-filled event. Forty fish of varying species were caught during the tournament, with the heaviest being a “tohei” or white eel. Families had the choice of keeping or releasing the fish after it was logged and weighed.

In addition to fishing, participants and their families were treated to a “Golf With A Cop” miniature golf course, as well as an ocean safety and awareness presentation by DLNR/DOCARE Officer John Kahiapo. Attendees also enjoyed a free lunch, ice shave, and prizes, which were donated by local businesses and individuals, including:

Cartow Kohala
HPM
Councilwoman Heather Kimball
Honua Ola Bio Energy
Malama Market – Honoka‘a
Earl’s Waimea
Café Pesto
Parker Ranch Center
HI-End Bullies
Access Capabilities
Dairy Queen
Anuenue Ice Cream & Shave Ice
Vero Pearls
Tokunaga Store
Laupahoehoe Train Museum
Honoka‘a High School Athletics
Hilo Laser Tag
DARE Hawaii
County of Hawai‘i
Department of Parks and Recreation

“Simple activities such as this promote healthy families,” said event organizer, School Resource Officer Blake Ragocos. “Put down that video game and pick up a fishing pole.

“We are very appreciative of the tremendous support from our local businesses who found value in supporting our event,” added Ragocos.